cocaine

noun

co·​caine kō-ˈkān How to pronounce cocaine (audio)
ˈkō-ˌkān
: a bitter crystalline alkaloid C17H21NO4 obtained from coca leaves that is used especially in the form of its hydrochloride medically as a topical anesthetic and illicitly for its euphoric effects and that may result in a compulsive psychological need

Examples of cocaine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
How did a footballer on the verge of the big time at Liverpool later find himself at the centre of a massive cocaine bust? Phil Hay, New York Times, 11 July 2025 Greed was good, debauchery was along for the ride, and cocaine was the ultimate catalyst. Steve Garbarino, HollywoodReporter, 10 July 2025 The story of Rob Ford, the 2010s Toronto mayor who descended into scandal and alleged crack cocaine use, was told in Trainwreck: Mayor of Mayhem, which came out June 17. Peter White, Deadline, 8 July 2025 Earl made money dealing cocaine, with about £20,000 ($27,000) in cash and more in cryptocurrency to show for his exploits. Christian Edwards, CNN Money, 8 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for cocaine

Word History

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cocaine was in 1860

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cocaine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cocaine. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

cocaine

noun
co·​caine kō-ˈkān How to pronounce cocaine (audio)
ˈkō-ˌkān
: a bitter habit-forming drug obtained from coca leaves and used in medicine to deaden pain and illegally for its euphoric effects

Medical Definition

cocaine

noun
co·​caine kō-ˈkān, ˈkō-ˌ How to pronounce cocaine (audio)
: a bitter crystalline alkaloid C17H21NO4 obtained from coca leaves that is used medically especially in the form of its hydrochloride C17H21NO4·HCl as a topical anesthetic and illicitly for its euphoric effects and that may result in a compulsive psychological need

More from Merriam-Webster on cocaine

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!